ESSA welcomes NDIS Review and backs holistic treatment approach and price reforms

Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) has welcomed the?review into the National Disability Insurance Scheme?(NDIS) handed down by Minister Bill Shorten today, already garnering?national media coverage?following the release of its?public statement.

The review has found that the scheme should be one part of a greater system, recommending 26 changes alongside 139 detailed actions to fix how Australians with disabilities access support.

Key highlights from the review are below.

1.?Active government stewardship of NDIS markets

Government bodies have been identified to play a more pivotal role in overseeing NDIS markets. This is essential to ensure that the services provided align with the needs of participants and maintain the highest standards.

2. Revamped pricing and payment incentives

A major focus was placed on modifying pricing and payment structures to foster efficiency and effectiveness. This change is anticipated to benefit both service providers and participants by streamlining processes and optimising resource allocation.

3. Workforce development

The report highlights the importance of attracting, training, and retaining the right workforce. For exercise physiologists, this could translate to more employment opportunities, professional development and enhanced service delivery to NDIS participants.

4. Enhancing service quality with appropriate safeguards

The report advocates for improved service quality and the implementation of risk-proportionate regulation. This approach is crucial for safeguarding the interests and wellbeing of NDIS participants.

5. Novel approach to mental health

The report proposes a unique approach to NDIS supports for psychosocial disability, centred on personal recovery. This is a significant development for exercise physiologists who have an essential role in supporting individuals with severe mental illnesses through physical activity and exercise interventions.

6. Five-year transition period for reforms

The implementation of these reforms is proposed to be staged over a five-year period, allowing for a smooth transition and minimal disruption to current services.

ESSA will continue working collaboratively with the National Disability Insurance Agency and other stakeholders to implement these reforms, including its call for NDIS pricing to be GST exclusive to align payment structures with the standards set in other national schemes.

ESSA looks forward to contributing its expertise in exercise physiology to enhance the NDIS and wellbeing of Aussies living with disability. Members who wish to get involved with ESSA's advocacy efforts are encouraged to join its Advocacy Network.